Suicide Prevention Month: Honoring Endometriosis Warriors in the Endo Black Community

Recognizing the impact of chronic illness, discrimination, and medical mistrust on mental health

by Arielle Dance

Content Warning: Suicide 

September is Suicide Prevention Month and we want to honor and remember the endometriosis siblings who have died by suicide. Endometriosis, along with the other chronic illnesses that often accompany it, can be debilitating and that pain can deeply impact someone’s mental health. Feeling dismissed by providers, plagued by constant pain, helpless in seeking treatment, and the financial burden of care are all possible reasons this disease can impact mental health and make someone consider suicide. For Black patients, the added layers of discrimination, medical mistrust, and access to adequate endometriosis care are additional burdens. 

If you are feeling overwhelmed by your endometriosis journey, please seek support. Consider talking to a therapist, finding a care team that you can trust, and leaning on your support system. Your life is worth living. If you or someone you know are considering suicide, call 988 for the suicide and crisis lifeline or visit 988lifeline.org.